Where do viruses come from? After researching the answer to this question I do not know where viruses come from. A long time ago a scientist or a group of biologists defined life as an organism that contains at least one cell. Viruses don’t have any cells. NONE. Therefore according to this definition they are not alive. How can something not alive create such havoc?

Viruses have particle strands of DNA and RNA. These sneaky particles will snag a ride on other “living” cells, a host. Inside the hosts cell viruses attach to other cells and replicate like crazy. Or they lay dormant in the body waiting for the perfect time to make an appearance. They are patient and clever. Hiding out and waiting on a door handle, phone or bathroom are prime areas to pick up a virus. Some viruses aren’t harmful and the body can fight them off. Others are strong and nothing can stop them. For example the common cold, flu or EBOLA.

Viruses…what are they good for.

Day 12 of me being sick. I went to the doctor last week because my symptoms told me that my illness was bacterial…..not viral. The doctor’s thinking was the same as mine. Antibiotics for 10 days and then a different antibiotic for 5 days. An inhaler to help me breath. I’ve never used an inhaler before. Tons of water, hot tea, hot soup, Vicks Vapo Rub under my nose and on my chest. I feel a little better. I’m back to work, but I’m still not well. Talking triggers coughing. If I have a virus the antibiotics are not helping at all and the sickness will just run it’s course. I could be contributing to the misuse of antibiotics which causes antibiotic resistant bacteria. Sigh. Risky business.

TIDBIT Florence contracted Crimean fever. By the time she was 38 years old she was housebound and bedridden for the rest of her life. She lived a long life. Crimean Fever is not a virus. Antibiotics were needed in this case.

Bacteria under a microscope

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About florencewannabe

I'm a registered nurse trying to work 1000 hours in 2014 to earn my pension. Currently, May 28,2014, I'm 455.5 hours into my goal. I have until Dec. 31, 2014 to get 544.5 hours of work. The catch is that I work per Diem and I don't have any guaranteed time.